Malacanang extends sympathies on passing of Mandela

Malacanang on Friday joined the world in extending condolences to the family and friends of Nelson Mandela and the South African people.

“We grieve over the death of a Nelson Mandela, a revered world leader, who led his nation and people to freedom by treading the path of peace,” Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement.

Coloma cited Mandela’s “unwavering fortitude and perseverance, affirming that taking the peaceful, non-violent path to freedom is one that brings about sustained and enduring fulfillment of a people’s aspirations for full emancipation.”

“In death as in life, he will always be a shining beacon of inspiration to all freedom-loving peoples,” he added

Mandela, 95, died at his Johannesburg home on Thursday after a prolonged lung infection. CATHERINE VALENTE